Multi-function level with hands-free retaining system

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and method for measuring and marking level and plumb is providently disclosed herein. The multi-function level includes one or more attachment devices to secure the level to the work or installation piece. The body of the level includes a structure to receive a fastener for coupling the level to a work piece. The structure to receive the fastener forms a hole, or a curved slot for adjustment, in the body of the level and is located near an end face at both ends of the level.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to PCTInternational Application No. PCT/US2011/068234, entitled “MULTI-FUNCTION LEVEL,” having an international filing date of Dec. 30,2011, and claims priority to U.S. provisional application(s): Ser. No.61429011 filed Dec. 31, 2010, entitled “MULTI-FUNCTION LEVEL” in theUnited States Patent and Trademark Office, the disclosures of which areincorporated by reference herein in their entireties. The above PCTInternational Application was published in the English language and hasInternational Publication No. WO/2012/092611 A2.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to a marking or measuringdevice and more particularly to a multi-function level.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Creating level and plumb lines or surfaces is ubiquitous in manyaspects, from building and construction, to furniture, hanging pictures,installing fence posts, etc. In other cases, an offset, angle, or pitch,e.g., as dictated by code, is marked or measured from level or plumb inother areas of building and construction such as structures requiringwater drainage, e.g., drains and sewage plumbing, roads and sidewalks,roofs, etc.

Different types of jobs and applications demand different configurationsand sizes of levels, which are also known as a carpenter's levels, abubble level, or a spirit level, so named for the fluid and bubble ofair in the vial that provides a level or inclination reading, e.g., ahorizontal or vertical plane. For many applications a nominal level ofseveral feet or more in length is adequate and easily transportable. Forother applications a longer level is more useful in order to havecontinuity of the level or plumb measurement over a longer span of anobject or to provide a more accurate measurement of level or of plumb.However, a longer level is typically more cumbersome and more easilydamaged.

A level can be held by hand against a work piece or an installationpiece in order to make the level or plumb measurement. If an object isbeing measured to install it level or plumb, then the object and thelevel together are typically adjusted, e.g., by shimming a cabinet ornudging a picture until level, plumb, or the desired offset or pitch isachieved. Some applications need a level measurement of an installationpiece against a work piece, e.g., installing a window in a wall of ahouse.

In some applications, such as installing level tile, the level issubjected to a messy or dirty environment where the level can be exposedand covered or contaminated with the work material, e.g., grout.Cleaning the level can be a burdensome and inefficient use of time, butstill a necessary task for maintaining the accuracy and function of thetool.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure of the invention provides a method and apparatuswith several embodiments that overcome the limitations of, provideimprovements to, and/or satisfy long felt but unsatisfied needs of theprior art. Beneficially, the present disclosure provides amulti-function tool that provides level and plumb measurements andmarking

One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a level with handsfree operation where the level is retained to the work piece or theinstallation piece. The level apparatus additionally includes: astructure in the body to receive a fastener for coupling the level to awork piece; at least one level indicator coupled to the body and visibleon the two side faces of the body; a fastener coupled to the structurein the body, the fastener for coupling the level apparatus to a workpiece for determining a level measurement. A plurality of fasteners maybe used for coupling the level apparatus to a work piece or aninstallation piece.

Alternative embodiments include a fastener that is: a screw, a nail, asuction cup, magnet, or a clamp; the fastener is retractable; or isselectively removable from the body. The structure in the body toreceive the fastener is located approximately near a center pointbetween the two end faces of the body in one embodiment. Alternatively,the level apparatus can include a plurality of structures in the body toeach receive a fastener, wherein one of the pluralities of structures islocated near one end face of the body and another of the plurality ofstructures is located near the second end face of the body. Thestructure in the body for the fastener can be a round or oval hole or astraight or curved slot to accept a fastener in order to allow movementof one of the end faces of the level up or down. The hole or slot issufficiently large for the threaded portion and shank of the fastener,e.g., screw, but is sufficiently small to prevent the head of the screw,or a washer under the head of the screw, from passing through.

These and other advantages of the present disclosure will becomeapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after having read thefollowing detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which arealso illustrated in the various drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings included herewith are incorporated in and form a part ofthis specification. The drawings illustrate one embodiment of thepresent disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explainthe principles of the invention. It should be understood that drawingsreferred to in this description are not drawn to scale unlessspecifically noted like references indicate similar elements.

FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a modular level with modular ends, witha single receiver coupling on one end face, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 1B and 1C are a top and front view, respectively, of a level withmodular ends, with a single receiver coupling on one end face, accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1D, 1E, 1F, and 1G are a side, top, front, and bottom view of alevel with a modular end having two receiver coupling locations with onecoupling location on the end face and one on the bottom surface,according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1H, 1J, 1K, and 1L are a side, top, front, and bottom view of alevel with a modular end having three coupling locations with onecoupling location on the end face, one on the bottom surface, and one onthe side face, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 1M is an isometric view of a washer seat for a cam-operatedconnector post to hold two modular levels together as a unit, accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIG. 1N and 1P are a top and front view of a level with alignment conesand elastomeric retention straps to pull two mating modular levelstogether, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1Q and 1R are a top and front view of a level with alignment pinsand a retention notch and dial system to pull two mating modular levelstogether, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1S and 1T are a top and front view of a level with a strap, winch,and post retention system to pull two mating modular levels together,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 1U is an isometric view of two modular levels being aligned forbeing coupling together as a single level system, according to one ormore embodiments.

FIGS. 1V and 1W are side views of an assembly of two modular levelscoupled together on their end faces, with a retention post in a looseand a tight position, respectively, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 1X, 1Y and 1Z are side views and a front view, respectively, of atwo modular level assembly coupled to form a framing square in a planeparallel with the side faces, with an optional offset alignment, formarking right angles and for measuring level and plumb simultaneously,according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1AA and 1AB are a front and bottom view of an assembly of threemodular levels coupled to form a drywall square in a plane parallel tothe side faces of the modular squares, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 1AC and 1AD are a top and front view of an assembly of threemodular levels coupled to form a T-square in a plane parallel to thebottom faces of the modular levels, for measuring level in twoperpendicular planes, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2A is an isometric view of a level having a retention system onboth the side face and the top surface of the level for securing thelevel to a work piece for both level and plumb measurements, accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 2B and 2C is a top and side view of a level having a side-faceretention system only on the side face of the level for retaining thelevel to a work piece, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 2D and 2E are two side views of a level having a top or bottomsurface retention system in an unused recessed position and in anextended position for engaging a work piece, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 2F, 2G, and 2H are isometric views of alternative embodiments ofconnectors for retaining a level to a work piece or installation piece,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3A is a side view of a level with only an angular adjustment systemusing a single cam, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of a level with two angular and /ortranslational adjustment systems using cams, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 3C is a side view of a level with a singular angular and/ortranslational adjustment system using a cam, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G are front views, and FIG. 3H a side view, ofalternative embodiments for angular and /or translational adjustmentsystem for a level, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of a level with spacers coupled to a sideface for offsetting the level from a work piece for a level measurement,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4B is an isometric view of a level with spacers coupled to a bottomface for offsetting the level from a work piece for a plumb measurement,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4C is an isometric view of a level with spacers coupled to anangular and/or translational adjustment system, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 4D and 4E are a top and front view of a level with spacers combinedwith an angular and/or translational adjustment system, a according toone or more embodiments.

FIG. 5A is an isometric view of a level with a slip-resistant system ona side face of the level, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 5B and 5C are top and front views of a level with a slip-resistantsystem on a side face of the level, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 5D and 5E are a top and front view of a level with an alternativelayout of slip-resistant system on a side face of the level, accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6A is an isometric view of a level with an offset gauge formeasuring slope or pitch of a work piece, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 6B is a side view of a level with an offset gauge in a retractedposition, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6C is a detail view of offset gauge in enlarged view to illustrateexemplary offset settings, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6D is a side view of a level with an engaged offset gauge appliedto a plumbing drain work piece to confirm a minimum slope required bycode, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of a level with a protective cover forcontaminating work environments, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 7B and 7C are a front and side view of a level with a protectivecover, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 7D is a side view of an alternative embodiment protective cover,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 7E is a front view of a level with a protective cover beingutilized in a contaminated work environment of installing tile,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 8A is an isometric view of a level with integrated features ofmodular ends, hands-free retention, cam-adjust, pitch gauge, anti-slip,spacer offset, and protective cover, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIGS. 8B and 8C are a top and front view, respectively, of a level withintegrated features of modular ends, hands-free retention, cam-adjust,pitch gauge, anti-slip, spacer offset, and protective cover, accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a level for measuring andmarking level, plumb and offset, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 10A is an isometric view of modular levels configured as a framingsquare and being applied to measure level and plumb for a pre-hung doorframe installation, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 10B is an isometric view of a wall installation using modularlevels configured as a modular plate level with spacer offsets formeasuring plumb, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 10C is an exploded view of modular levels configured as anelongated installation-plane level with spacer offsets and retentionconnectors for measuring level for installation of two windows inparallel on a same wall, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 10D is an isometric view of modular levels configured as a two-axisU-shaped level assembly for measuring level of a base cabinetinstallation, according to one or more embodiments.

Other features of the present embodiments will be apparent from theaccompanying drawings and from the detailed description that follows.Alpha letters I and O are intentionally omitted in alpha numeric figuresto avoid ambiguity with the use of numerals one (1) and zero (0).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of theinvention. Examples of the preferred embodiment are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. While the invention will be described inconjunction with the preferred embodiments, it is understood that theinvention is not limited to these embodiments. Rather, the invention isintended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which maybe included within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined bythe appended claims. Additionally, in the following detailed descriptionof the present disclosure, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the presentinvention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart that the present invention may be practiced without these specificdetails. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components,and operations have not been described in detail so as not tounnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.

Modular Level

Referring now to FIG. 1A, a isometric view of a modular level 100-A withmodular ends 101-A and 101-B having a single receiver coupling 125 onone end face 122, is shown according to one or more embodiments. Inparticular, modular level 100-A has a body 110 having a longitudinalaxis 112 running along the longest dimension of the level, and havingtwo side faces 114, 116, a top surface 130 and a bottom surface 132, andtwo end faces 120 and 122 each of which are located at the end of axis112. Additionally, modular level 100-A includes: at least one end face120 or 122 that is a jointed end or has a joint or joint structure; atleast one level indicator 124 coupled to, or disposed in, the body andvisible on the at least one side face 114 or 116 of the body and/orvisible on at least the top or bottom surface 130 or 132; a connector125, disposed in the jointed end, or modular end, 101-A of body 110,and/or a single receiver coupling, or structure, 128 disposed in thejointed end, or modular end, 101-B of body 110 to receive connector 125,such that the modular level 100-A can be coupled to an add-on tool (notshown) or another modular level. Connector 125, or the structure 128 toreceive the connector, will place a resultant composite load on level101-A in a direction parallel to, and optionally collinear with, theaxis 112. That is, connector 125 and structure 128 to receive connectorcan be located on the centrally-located axis 112 of the body 110, or canbe located offset, but parallel to, axis 112. Structure 128 to receiveconnector 125 is disposed in the end face 120 in the present embodiment,but may be disposed in either side face 114 or 116, or in either the topsurface 130 or bottom surface 132 of body 110 in alternativeembodiments. Connector 125, when not in use, is retracted or stowed inthe body, or in some cases can be removed from the body, such that thelevel is useful as a single modular level itself, without members orjoining mechanisms that would otherwise protrude and might interferewith a basic leveling function, or level transport and storage. Modularlevel 100-A can have only one end face, or both end faces, 120 or 122with a jointed configuration. Body 110 of level 100-A, apart from theend face, e.g., the main length of level 100, will have no load fromcoupling level 100-A to another level or add-on tool, thus reducing anypotentially warping affect on the body or faces, especially top andbottom faces 130 and 132, of level 100-A, and thereby ensuring a moreaccurate level performance and measurement. By having a load on level101-A in a direction parallel to, and optionally collinear with, theaxis, the alignment of multiple levels coupled together is collinear,and thus level and measuring functions are more accurate and useful.This is superior over an alternative embodiment that loads multiplecollinearly assembled levels in a direction perpendicular to the axis ofthe body of the levels and thus may misalign the levels, especially ifthe load pushes any part of the body of the levels apart from eachother. Thus, the present embodiment does not require an additional railor other long or bulky equipment in which multiple levels would beinserted, or set, in order to retain them together as a long levelassembly.

Level indicator 124 has a vial axis parallel with axis 112 of level101-A for measuring a level position, while optional plumb indicator 134has a vial axis perpendicular to axis 112, or perpendicular to andoptionally offset from axis 112, for measuring a plumb position. Level101-A can include additional vials, e.g., indicating a 45° angle, and/ora rotatable vial capable of variable angles. Any of the vials can bevisible on any faces desired, e.g., on top surface 130 and both sidefaces 114 and 116 by designing the vial near the top surface withscallop cuts to allow viewing of the vial, and with clear plasticportions of body or vial housing that are optionally flush with topsurface 130 and both side faces 114 and 116.

Referring now to FIGS. 1B and 1C, a top and front view, respectively, ofmodular level 100-A with modular end faces, is shown according to one ormore embodiments. Connector 125 is releasable and retractable, and hasan adjustment to place a variable, adjustable, or preset load on thelevel 100-A. In particular, connector 125 includes a post 126 having afirst end 127 and a second end 123 having at least a partially threadedportion, e.g., to accept a nut 140, which can be turned to vary, e.g.,increase or decrease, the tension, on the connector post 126. First end127 is anchored into a first level, e.g., modular level 100-A, bycoupling it to a folding lever 136 having a cam pivot 137, shown in arelaxed, or open, state, to provide tension on the post when foldinglever 136 is depressed. Second end 123 of connector post 126 is capableof being anchored into a second level (not shown) having a structure 128to receive connector 125. In particular, body 110 is a structure with alarge cavity 129 formed to receive a nut 140, and a structure with anarrower slot 131 to receive the post 126 but enclose the nut 140,thereby effectively retaining connector 125, and allowing a plurality ofmodular levels to be coupled together. In lieu of nut 14, a non-threadedlug, e.g., cylindrical, square, or other shape may be coupled to, orintegral with post 126 for use in retaining an adjoining modular level.

While the present embodiment has jointed ends on both end faces 120 and122, other embodiments have a jointed end only on one end face, and anon-jointed end on the other end face, thus providing for only oneadditional modular level to be added to it, though other modular levelsmay be added to the additional modular level.

At least one mating flat surface 120 on jointed end, e.g., 101-A and101-B, has an imaginary normal vector that would be coplanar orcollinear with axis 112 in the present embodiment, in order to allowmating levels to slide together in a direction perpendicular to axis112, e.g., sideways. Level 100-A also has a plurality of mating flatsurfaces 120-1, 120-2, 122-1, and 122-2 whose imaginary normal vectorwould be coplanar with axis 112, wherein at least one of the pluralityof mating flat surfaces, e.g., 120-1 and 122-2, forms an angle withrespect to another one of the plurality of mating flat surfaces, e.g.,120 and 122, respectively, or wherein the angle formed between theplurality of mating flat surfaces on the jointed end of the first leveland on the jointed end of the second level is a 90 degree angle. Inother words, the plurality of flat surfaces 120, 120-1, 120-2, 122,122-1, and 122-2 extend in a direction perpendicular to the two sidefaces of the level in the current embodiment. Modular ends 101-A and100-B have multiple faces, with offsets and angles of intersection inorder to make a stepped joint that will provide faces against which twomating modular levels will not rotate, thus providing rotationalstability, and consequently alignment of top and bottom surfaces acrossmating modular levels, to provide smooth and contiguous level or plumbmeasurements or lines on a work piece or an installation piece. Matingflat surface 120-1 makes an approximate 45 degree angle with respect toother mating flat surfaces 120-2 and 120, thereby providing a guidingfeature for the mating flat surfaces, e.g., 122-1 from another adjoiningmodular level. An alternative embodiment to mating flat surfaces wouldbe the use of mating saw tooth surfaces or mating curved surfaces, e.g.,conical, cylindrical, wedge shape, or combination thereof in any axisthat would provide alignment and stability of the assembled matinglevels or add-on tools. In these embodiments, while individual loadingvectors perpendicular to mating faces may not be collinear or parallelto the axis of the body of the level, the resultant composite load willresult in a composite loading vector that is coplanar, collinear, orparallel to the axis of the body, e.g., two angled vectors cancel theiropposite direction components and combine in the similar directioncomponents. Other embodiments can be used without a composite loadingvector that is coplanar, collinear, or parallel to the axis of the body,but the coupling between the levels may not be as beneficial.

The load on connector 125 is a tensile, or tension, load. Thecomplementary and opposing load on a mating end face, similar to 120, ofanother level or add-on tool with a structure, similar to 128, toreceive connector 125 is a compressive, or compression, load. Asubstantial portion of body 110 receives no load from coupling the levelto another level. This promotes several benefits such as: asubstantially unloaded level, thereby avoiding warping or buckling,while maintaining flatness, consistency, accuracy of top surface 130,bottom surface 132, and side surfaces 114 and 116, as well as edges116-B and 114-B (where two planes intersect). A variable, or adjustable,load on a connector can be used when multiple joined levels, or add-ontools, create a very long assembly, which requires a strong load toprovide rigidity and stability in the assembly, and thus reduce bendingor distortion. In another embodiment, a connector traverses the entirelength of the level, thus placing the entire level in compression, andreducing bending from very long assemblies, or from excessive loadsplaced on level for an installation. In another embodiment, multipleconnectors 125 with multiple mating receiver couplings, or structures128 can be used on ends 120 and 122, e.g., analogous to the pins 166 and168 of FIG. 1R hereinafter. By using multiple connectors, located closerto the top surface 130 and the bottom surface, bending strength of thejoint is significantly improved, thus offering improved rigidity forlonger assemblies of multiple levels, and for bearing the load of workpieces. In yet another embodiment, mating faces 122 through 122-2 and120-120-2 can represent more of a dovetail arrangement, with multipletongue in groove instances, thus allowing multiple mating levels toslide together sideways to form an integral joint with a tight fit or amoderate press fit that provides alignment, as well as bending strength,with an optional built in single or multiple connector and receivercoupling if desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 1D, 1E, 1F, and 1G a side, top, front, and bottomview of a level 100-F with a modular end having two (2) couplingstructures, or locations, with one coupling 128-1 located on the endface 120 and a second coupling 128-2 located on the bottom surface 132,is shown according to one or more embodiments. These modular ends arethe female version of the coupling, e.g., a structure to receiveconnector. Having multiple coupling locations on a given modular levelprovides more configurability options to adjoining modular levels oradd-on tools, in multiple Cartesian axes, e.g., 2 axes, as will bedescribed in subsequent figures applying modular level assemblies towork projects. In the present embodiment, a modular end 101-A of level100-F only has a single connector (not shown), similar to that ofmodular level 100-A.

Referring now to FIGS. 1H, 1J, 1K, and 1L a side, top, front, and bottomview of a level 100-F with a modular end having three (3) couplingstructures, or locations, with one coupling 128-1 located on the endface, a second coupling 128-2 on the bottom surface 132, and a thirdcoupling 128-3 located on the side face 114-A, which has a flat surfaceextending from top surface 130 to bottom surface 132, is shown accordingto one or more embodiments. These modular ends are the female version ofthe coupling, e.g., a structure to receive connector. Having multiplecoupling locations on a given modular level on multiple orthogonalplanes, or axes, provides more configurability options to adjoiningmodular levels or add-on tools, e.g., in three Cartesian axes for thepresent embodiment, as will be described in subsequent figures applyingmodular level assemblies to work projects. In the present embodiment,level 100-F will only have a single connector (not shown), similar tomodular end 101-A of modular level 100-A. Coupling structures can beprovided in any quantity of any combination of any of top, bottom, firstside, second side and end faces, or surfaces.

Referring now to FIG. 1M an isometric view of a washer seat assembly 150for a cam-operated connector post to hold two modular levels together asa unit, is shown according to one or more embodiments. In particular,washer seat assembly 150 includes: a wide base 152 to dissipate the loadof a connector when placed inside cavity 147 formed in body 110; astructure forming a hole cavity 153 to accept a connector; and acylindrical shaped seat 151 to accept and center cam 137; wherein thesefeatures work in concert to enable one level embedding one end of aconnector to pull together a mating level with a structure to accept theother end of the connector.

The embodiments in FIGS. 1N, 1P, 1Q, 1R, 1S, and 1T illustrate modularends that mate together as disclosed for FIGS. 1A through 1L. Referringnow to FIG. 1N and 1P a top and front view of a level 155 having:alignment cones 158-A and 158-B; corresponding structures that formconical cavities 157-A and 157-B; elastomeric retention straps 160-A and160-B; and cavities 159-A / 159-B and cavities 159-C/ 159-D formed inbody 110-N to receive elastomeric retention straps 160-A and 160-B ofgiven level 155, and to receive elastomeric retention straps (not shown)of mating levels (not shown), respectively. Level 155 providesattachment, retention, and loading means via elastomeric retentionstraps 160-A through 160-D to pull two or more mating modular levelstogether. One end of an elastomeric strap can be removably orpermanently coupled to the body 110-N of level 155, while a removableend will be removably coupled from a mating level. A tab can be builtinto the elastomeric strap to facilitate coupling with a mating level,into a cavity that is located a distance greater than the length of theelastomeric strap in order to stretch the strap and place it in tension.In other embodiments, elastic bands or metallic springs may be used toretain multiple levels together. The mating nature of the cavities 159-Aand 159-B and cones 158-A and 158-B provide alignment of top surfaces,and prevent rotation of one level to another mated level.

Level can include different arrangements and quantities, e.g., one ormore, of: a male, or convex, conical shape, and a female, or concave,conical shape, wherein the female component is shaped to accept a maleconical shape, thereby providing centering function; have one end facewith one male conical shape and one female conical shape aligned on alongitudinal axis parallel to the side face; have a conical shape thathas a blunt tip, e.g., frustoconical. One advantage to the alignment ofmultiple levels, whether by flat mating surfaces, grooved surfaces,multiple faces, or a frustoconical configuration, is the torsionalrigidity about the body axis and the stability provided, thus ensuring aflat and coplanar top face and/or bottom face of one or more levels,which in turn ensures an accurate level measurement on a work piece.

Referring now to FIGS. 1Q and 1R a top and front view of a level 165with a alignment pins 166, 168 and a holes 169, 170 and dial system 171to pull two mating modular levels together, is shown according to one ormore embodiments. In particular pins 166, 168 of one level will fit intoholes similar to 169, 170 of a mating level (not shown), via a slip fitor a slight friction fit. Pin 166 includes notch 167 into which a flattang, similar to 172 of dial 171, can be engaged by turning dial 171from a mating level (not shown). Dial can have a rotatable friction fitin body 110-Q of level, or can be screw threaded into body 110-Q inorder to maintain its position when turned into a notch 167 of pin 166.

Referring now to FIGS. 1S and 1T a top and front view of a level 175with a strap 179, winch 177, and post 178 retention system to pull twomating modular levels together, is shown according to one or moreembodiments. In particular, strap 179 is coupled and wound around winch177, which is rotatably coupled to body 110-S. Strap 179 protrudes fromwindow 182 formed in body 110-S to allow a free end of strap 179 to beplaced through a slot, similar to slot 181, in another object, e.g., amating level or tool (not shown), and then coupled via hook 180 ontopost 178 of the same level 175 to retain another object and allow avariable tension load to be placed on the strap 179 via winch handle176. A dog pawl ratchet with release, known by those skilled in the art,allows for release of strap 179. When not in use, hook 180 can be placedon post 178 and tightened without any mating level.

Referring now to FIG. 1U an isometric view of two modular levels 102,103 being aligned for being coupling together as a single level system100-U, is shown according to one or more embodiments. In particular,modular end 101-A2 of level 102 slides in a direction perpendicular toside faces of both levels in order to engage connector 125-U intostructure 128-U for accepting connector. Once mated, and aligned so topand bottom face, or surfaces, of both levels 102, 103 align and areflush, and optionally such that that side faces of both levels align andare flush, then lever 136 can be pushed to engage cam 137, whichtightens connector 125 and locks both levels 102, 103 together to act asa single contiguous level with flush top and bottom surfaces. Thejointed end of the first level pulls the jointed end of the second leveltoward itself collinearly.

Referring now to FIGS. 1V and 1W side views of an assembly 100-V of twomodular levels 102 and 103 coupled together on their end faces, with aconnector in a loose and a tight position, respectively, are shownaccording to one or more embodiments. In particular, levels 102 and 103are slid together with top surfaces 130-2 and 130-1 flush, and withlever 136 in a turned down position to allow slack 185 between connector125 and structure 128 to accept connector. In FIG. 1W, lever 136 ispushed into an inline and tight position, eliminating any effective gapbetween levels 102, 103 and drawing connector 125 in tension per arrows188, while creating compression on end faces of levels 102, 103, perarrows 186.

Referring now to FIGS. 1X, 1Y and 1Z side views and a front view,respectively, of a two modular level assembly 100-Z coupled to form aframing square or a try-square, in an L-shape, are shown according toone or more embodiments. In particular, FIG. 1Z illustrates end face120-Z of level 104 is coupled to bottom surface 132-Z of level 105 suchthat side faces of both levels are coplanar or are in parallel planes.In particular, FIG. 1X illustrates a side face 114-X of level 105 has anoffset 190-B from side face 114-Y of level 104, thereby allowing level105 to act as a try-square, falling along the edge of a work piece totry the squareness of an adjoining surface. Offset 190-B is created bytightening connector 125 when level 104 and 105 are in an offsetposition, e.g., with a side face of one level in a plane parallel withthe side face of the other level. The plurality of stepped surfaces 120,120-1, and 120-2 allow levels 104 and 105 to slide together whilepreventing rotation, anywhere from an offset position to a flushposition, as desired by the user. In contrast, FIG. 1Y illustrates sideface 114-X of level 105 flush to side face 114-Y of level 104, therebyacting as a framing square, carpenter's square or a rafter square, tomark a right angle, e.g., on two adjoining beams. Either configurationcan be utilized for marking right angles or for measuring level andplumb simultaneously.

Referring now to FIGS. 1AA and 1AB a front and bottom view of anassembly 100-AA of three modular levels 104, 105, and 106 coupled toform a drywall square, as a T-shape, in a plane parallel to the sidefaces of the modular squares, is shown according to one or moreembodiments. Assembly 100-AA can be viewed as the carpenter's squarefrom FIG. 1Z with an additional modular level 106 added to end face120-Y of level 105, such that the side faces of all three levels are inthe same plane or in a parallel plane, as indicated by offset 192 inFIG. 1AB, which acts as a fence for marking or measuring square.

Referring now to FIGS. 1AC and 1AD a top and front view of an assembly100-AC of three modular levels 104, 105-A, and 106 coupled to form aT-square in a plane parallel to the bottom faces of the modular levels,for measuring level in two perpendicular planes, is shown according toone or more embodiments. Similar to FIG. 1AA, levels 105-A and 106 arecoupled at their end faces. However, unlike FIG. 1AA, the presentembodiment couples end face of level 104 to side face of level 105-A.Thus, level 105-A has a side face configuration similar to that of level100-K of FIGS. 1H-1L. Assembly 100-AC is useful for measuring levelacross a wide planar surface that essentially spans multiple axes, e.g.,a countertop. A jointed structure can be located at any place on thebody of the level, e.g., it does not have to be located on the end ofthe body, but rather can also be located in the middle of the body ifdesired. The jointed structure refers to any means or mating structurefor connecting a level to another level or an add-on tool, e.g., viathreaded post connector and cam or its mating structure to accept theconnector, elastomeric strap or structure to accept strap, strap withwinch or structure to accept strap, clamp, or any other of a wide rangeof retention means and structures. In an alternative embodiment, onlytwo modular levels, e.g., 104 and 105-A, are joined to provide levelmeasurement around an inside or an outside corner, e.g. of a room wall,for leveling applications such as window installation or picturehanging, intended to be level with each other.

Retention System

Referring now to FIG. 2A an isometric view of a level 200-A having aretention system on both the side face and the top surface of the levelfor securing the level to a work piece for both level and plumbmeasurements, is shown according to one or more embodiments. Level 200-Aoffers a hands-free measuring and marking of level and plumb since thelevel can be retained to the work piece or the installation piece. Levelapparatus 200-A includes: a body 210 having a longitudinal axis 212 andhaving two side faces 214, 216 a top and a bottom surface, and two endfaces with each end face located at the end of the axis; a side faceretaining systems 201-A, 201-B, and a top or bottom face retainingsystem 251 in the present embodiment. Level 200-A also includes at leastone level indicator, for either level or plumb measurement, marking orreading, that is coupled to the body and visible on at least one of thetwo side faces or a top or bottom surface of the body.

Referring now to FIGS. 2B and 2C a top and side view of a level 200-Bhaving only side face retention connector system 201-A, 201-B located inside face 214, 216 of the level for retaining the level to a work piece,are shown according to one or more embodiments. Side face retentionconnector system 201-A, 201-B includes structures formed in the body 210to receive a fastener for coupling the level to a work piece,embodiments of which include an arced slot 214-A, 214-B and a retentionhole 216-B, 216-A, respectively, located at a radius 220 from oppositecorners. In the present embodiment, fastener 219-B is inserted inretention hole 216-B and driven into a work or installation piece tothereby acting as a pivot point and restraining the pivot point from anylinear or angular displacement. Fastener 219-A is inserted in arced slot214-A and similarly driven into a work or installation piece therebyallowing level 200-B to have independent angular displacement 217 onright end, with a respective smaller and dependent angular displacement219 on left end, due to pivoting action about pivot point, fastener219-B.

While the present embodiment illustrates independent pivoting on rightend of level 200-B, the fastener arrangement can be reversed to allowindependent pivoting on left end of level 200-B. Fasteners 219-B, 219-Acan be tightened per user's discretion to allow a loose or a tightslippage of level 200-B against work or installation piece. When desiredlevel or plumb is obtained, fasteners 219-B, 219-A can be tightenedfully to prevent movement of level 200-B against work or installationpiece. Furthermore, an additional plurality of fasteners can be insertedinto remaining arced slot 214-B and retention hole 216-A to provideadditional immobilization of level 200-B against work or installationpiece, and/or to support work pieces that might rest upon level 200-Bduring their installation. In the present embodiment, the pitch 221 ofleft end slotted arc 214-B and retention hole 216-B to right end slottedarc 214-A and retention hole 216-A is equivalent to a standard studpitch of 16 inches. However, in another embodiment, different modularlevels can have a different single pitch between side wall retentionsystems for use in different applications, e.g., 12, 14, 24, etc. inchpitch. Similarly, another embodiment can have multiple different pitcheson the same level, thereby allowing the choice of multiple pitches froma single level. An combination of retention holes and slotted arcs canbe placed at any location on level, e.g., for use in a contiguous loadbearing work piece, such as a plywood wall, or a contiguous installationpiece such as a cabinet. The greater the quantity of retention holesand/or slotted arcs the greater the load that level can bear and themore consistent the level reading, measurement, or marking. Side face214-B and/or 214-A can be flush in another embodiment, rather thancountersunk as shown, either along the entire length of level 200-B orsimply in a localized area around side face retention systems 201-A,201-B, in order to offer full contact against a work or installationpiece, and thereby provide a more rigid and stable load-carryingcapability.

Referring now to FIGS. 2D and 2E two side views of a level 200-D havinga top or bottom surface retention system 251 in an unused, recessedposition and in an extended position for engaging a work piece,respectively, are shown according to one or more embodiments. In thepresent embodiment, retention system 251 is oriented to allow fastener236 to protrude from top surface 237 to engage a work or installationpiece. However, structure in body 221 forming bore 240 can havecountersink to depth 239 and diameter to accommodate head of fastener236, from either top face 237, bottom surface, or both surfaces to allowfastener 236 to protrude from either bottom and/or top surfaces for fullconfigurability. Fastener 236 is retained in level 200-D 234 by a flatdisk with slits that engage the threads of fastener 236 to maintainscrew tip recessed from top surface 237 when not in use. Alternatively,fastener 236 can be spring-loaded by a helical coil spring so thefastener is automatically retractable into a recessed position so thelevel may be used sans retainer, e.g., with the fastener not protrudingfrom either of the side faces, or at least not having the sharp tip ofthe fastener protruding from a side face of the body of the level. Inyet another embodiment, fastener can be much longer than the width ofthe body of the level 200-D in order to accommodate a spacer and stillbe able to penetrate a work piece. In such an application, selectivelyremovable fasteners would help to prevent injury or damage whenself-retention system is not in use.

FIGS. 2F, 2G, and 2H are isometric views of alternative embodiments ofconnectors for retaining a level to a work piece or installation piece,according to one or more embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2F a suction cup200-F having a conical cup 270 and a retainer 272 to retain it in level,e.g., screw into retainer hole 216-A, 216-B. FIG. 2G is a push pinretainer 200-G that allows level placement against softer materials suchas soft wood, plywood, drywall, etc. in order to retain or preventslippage of level. Push pin retainer 200-G includes a retainer to retainit in level, e.g., screw into retainer hole 216-A, 216-B. FIG. 2H is amagnet. Alternative embodiments of a connector for retaining a level toa work or installation piece include a nail, clamp, repositionableadhesive material, self-tapping fasteners, quarter-turn fastener, afastener with a wing nut, thumb screw, or knurled knob for fingertightening, or any other device that allows selective coupling. Whiletop or bottom surface retention system 251 is located near the center ofthe length of level, alternative embodiments can locate top or bottomface retention system, e.g., structures forming a hole to accept afastener, anywhere along level 200-D, and in another embodiment canutilize a plurality of top or bottom surface retention systems 251.

In an alternative embodiment, retention hole 216-B, 216-A can be createdby making an oversize hole in body of level, then installing an insertinto which a fastener may be placed. An insert can help prevent damageto the body of the level by having a material that locally absorbs theload and damage from using a fastener therein. Additionally, an insertcan have some flexibility built into it as well, e.g., using phenolicresin or hard rubber captured sleeve that helps to accommodatemisalignments, over tightening, etc.

Adjustment System for Angular or Translational Positioning

Referring now to FIG. 3A an isometric view of a level 300-A with anangular and/or translational adjustment system 301-A, 301-B, is shownaccording to one or more embodiments. Level 300-A includes: a body 310;a level indicator 124 and/or a plumb indicator 134 housed in body 310and visible on either a side face and/or top or bottom surface of thebody; optional fasteners 308 as inserted into angular and/ortranslational adjustment system 301-A, 301-B, referred to as a cam-typeadjustment in the present embodiment. Body 310 includes: a longitudinalaxis; two side faces; a top and a bottom surface; two end faces witheach end face located at the end of the axis; and a structure in thebody to receive a fastener for coupling the level to a work piece.Angular and/or translational adjustment system 301-A, 301-B is coupled,or retained, in the body 310, wherein the adjuster is selectivelyadjustable to provide movement of level 300-A against a work piece (notshown).

Referring now to FIG. 3B a side view of a level 300-A with two angularand /or translational adjustment systems 301-A, 301-B using cams, isshown according to one or more embodiments. Angular and/or translationaladjustment system, or simply adjuster, 301-A, 301-B includes a structureto receive a fastener for selectively coupling the level to a workpiece; wherein the fastener is a screw 308-A in the present embodiment,or a nail, suction cup, magnet, clamp, etc. alternative embodimentse.g., as presented in FIGS. 2A through 2H, to selectively couple theadjuster to the work piece. An optional rotatable sleeve captured inadjuster 301-A, 301-B can allow easier rotational movement of adjuster301-A and 301-B while adjuster 301-A, 301-B is fastened to work piece.Adjusters 301-A, 301-B are selectively adjustable and rotatably retainedin body 310 to provide a plurality of degrees of freedom, e.g., a firstdegree of freedom that is translational and/or a second degree offreedom that is rotational. Translational movement 361 is thedisplacement 360-A and 360-B of both ends of level 300-A in the samedirection, resulting in movement perpendicular to the axis 312 of thebody of the level. Translational movement 361 is accomplished when theboth adjuster 301-A and 301-B are rotated to move both ends of level inthe same direction. The second degree of freedom is rotational orangular movement 360-A or 360-B of level 300-A against the work piece.Angular rotation 360-A or 360-B is accomplished by adjusting only oneadjuster 301-A or 301-B or by adjusting both adjusters 301-A and 301-Bin opposite directions, e.g., to cause one end of level to rise and theother to fall. By using a plurality of adjusters, both ends of level300-A can be adjusted, thereby providing an optional pure translationalmovement 361 of level 300-A, e.g., either up or down, while keepinglevel 300-A in a level reference position 350. Adjusters 301-A, 301-Binclude a round cylinder 322 having a center body, and a retainingflange, and wherein a structure for accepting fastener is positioned incylinder 322 at a point offset from the center of the cylinder in orderto provide a cam movement when cylinder 322 is turned. Adjuster 322 canoptionally be selectively coupled to a spacer, as described insubsequent FIG. 4A, that extends beyond side face 316 in order toprovide a gap between the level 300-A and a work piece, e.g., in orderto accept an installation piece to be leveled.

The structure in the body, e.g., a bore, 309-A, 309-B to receive thefastener is aligned with the position of adjusters 301-A, 301-B,respectively, to provide additional retainment strength for level 300-Aagainst work piece after level 300-A is suitably positioned usingadjusters 301-A, 301-B, as described in previous FIG. 2A.

In another embodiment, a method of adjusting level 300-A includes:receiving a level 300-A having a body 310 with a longitudinal axis 312,two side faces, a top and a bottom surface, and two end faces with eachend face located at the end of the axis and having an adjuster retainedin the body, wherein the adjuster 301-A or 301-B is selectively movable,or rotatable, to provide movement of level 300-A against a work piece;placing level 300-A against a work or installation piece; and adjustingone or more adjuster(s) 301-A, 301-B on level 300-A in order to movelevel 300-A with respect to the work or installation piece in order toobtain a desired angle, reading, offset, level position or translatedposition. Adjusters 301-A, 301-B are fixedly coupled to the work orinstallation piece and movably coupled to the level in order to allowlevel 300-A to move with respect to the installation or work piece.

Referring now to FIG. 3C a side view of a level 300-C with only a singleangular adjustment system 301-A using a cam, is shown according to oneor more embodiments. Fastener 308-B is inserted in hole 309-B to providea pivot point about which level 300-C can exhibit only a single degreeof freedom of being angularly displaced 360-A.

Referring now to FIG. 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G front views, and to FIG. 3H sideview, of alternative embodiments for angular and /or translationaladjustment systems for a level, are shown according to one or moreembodiments. Use of only one adjuster located at an end of a level willprovide a single degree of freedom, e.g., angular rotation, while use ofonly one adjuster located near the center of the length of the level canprovide a single degree of freedom, e.g., linear translation up anddown, assuming the level is rotationally stable. Use of two adjusterslocated at either end of a level will provide two degrees of freedom,e.g., both angular rotation and linear translation up and down. FIG. 3Dillustrates a screw adjustment system wherein a head 330 can be turnedthat moves a rack 334 translatably retained in slots 336-B, 336-A inbody 310-D of level 300-D. Rack 334 is coupled to work piece by at leastone fastener 308 that passes through slots 336-B, 336-A. FIG. 3Eillustrates wedge-dial adjustment system having a dial 364-A with awedge bottom surface that mates with a wedge top surface of a lower dial364-B having a fastener 308 couple it to a work through slot 366 withinwhich shank of fastener 308 can travel as level 300-E is traversed. FIG.3F illustrates a wedge adjustment system 300-F having: a wedge structure340-B affixed to level and coupled via fastener 308 to a work piece; amating wedge 340-A that is movable coupled to body 310-F of level 300-Fsuch that lateral movement 346 of wedge 340-A in slot 342 allowsmovement of level 310-F due to mechanical wedge action thereby creatingangular displacement 360-A. FIGS. 3G and 3H illustrates a front and across-sectional view, respectively, of transverse wheel adjustmentsystem 300-G including: wheel 350 rotatably disposed on shaft 352 withinopening 356 of body 310-F. Wheel 350 includes a slip-resistant surface354 that protrudes a distance 378 from side face 316 in order to contactwork or installation piece, but is compressible under load to allow sideface 316 to rest flatly against work or installation piece. Otheradjuster embodiments can include any cam, wedge, dial, rack and pinion,screw, or any other system that provides the translational and/orangular movement of the level for purposes of aligning it to level,plumb, an angle, or an offset.

As an alternative to optional fasteners 308, adjustment system 301-Aand/or 301-B can utilize a non-slip backing on back face of assembly 322that buts against work piece or installation piece, with rotationalfreedom vis-à-vis dial 320 to allow the translational or angularadjustment while being retained against the work piece or installationpiece. An example is provided in subsequent FIG. 8B showing back face372 of spacer 401-A that is coupled to the back face 370 of adjuster301-A. In another embodiment, adjuster 301-A, 301-B includes a 3/8 inchreceptacle to allow for a socket drive, to provide extra leverage toobtain angular and translational adjustment of level when heavier loads,such as a window or a set of tiles are placed on the level. A differentembodiment of angular and translation adjustment system providesadjusters on end faces 374, 376 (not shown) for placement of a singlelevel between two surfaces, e.g., between two walls such as in a showertile installation application, where the level can be adjusted upwardsto sequentially check level of, or provide a level surface for, rows oftiles. If multiple modular files are joined to provide the needed widthbetween work pieces, e.g., shower walls, then the ends of the compositefile utilize the adjusters, while the jointed ends between levels haveconnectors to enable modular coupling of the multiple levels.

Spacer Offset System

Referring now to FIG. 4A an isometric view of a level 400-A with spaceroffset system coupled to a side face for offsetting the level from awork piece for a plumb or level measurement, is shown according to oneor more embodiments. Level 400-A includes: a body 410 having alongitudinal axis 412 and having two side faces, a top and a bottomsurface, and two end faces with each end face located at the end of theaxis; and one or more spacers 401-A, 401-B coupled to the body 410,wherein spacers 401-A, 401-B extend a consistent, or same, distancebeyond body 410 for consistent level measurement, e.g., extend beyond atleast one of the two side faces, e.g., 414 or beyond the top or bottomsurface, wherein the spacer offsets the body from a work piece to avoidan obstacle on the work piece or to accommodate an installation piecebetween level 400-A and work piece. Spacers can extend an inconsistentdistance to compensate for a known step in a work or installation piece.Spacers 401-A, 401-B can also be spaced apart to allow one or moreinstallation piece to be disposed on top of level with a portion of theinstallation piece, e.g., a flange, to be placed between the level andthe work piece, such as a wall, thereby providing a level baselinesurface on which the installation piece may rest and be supported duringits installation process. Subsequent FIG. 10C provides an example ofsuch an installation. As such, distance between spacers 401-A and 401-Bcan be fixed at a given stud pitch, e.g., 16 or 24 inches or some otherdistance, with an optional slot to allow for minor adjustments toaccommodate stud misplacement or non-traditional spacing.

Spacers 401-A, 401-B can be single spacer if sufficiently wide and/orsufficiently attached to work piece so as to provide stability of level,e.g., wide rectangle offset piece coupled in multiple locations tomiddle portion of level and coupled to work piece in multiple locationsso as to provide clearance for installation piece or for obstacle onwork piece located on both ends of the level. Alternatively multiplespacers having equal offset can be coupled to body 412 to provide astable offset from a work piece, such as the present embodiment having aspacers located near each end of level 400-A.

Spacer 401-A, 401-B can be permanently, selectively, slidably orhingedly coupled to the body. By being slidably coupled, e.g., within aslot of body 410, spacer 401-A, 401-B can be aligned with a given workor installation piece. Removably coupled spacer 401-A, 401-B can beretained by: a screw whether wood or machine threads and with fastenerhead adapted for a driver or for a finger tightening mechanism likewing-nut or knurled head; detent quick release coupling; detentinterference fit; sprint-loaded tangs, suction cup, magnet, or any otherselectively removable coupling mechanism that would allow a stablecoupling of spacer and selective removal of spacer from body of level.In an alternative embodiment spacer is hingedly coupled to level so asto swing out of position into a recessed area of level and thus avoidinterfering with access to one or more surfaces of level during levelingor plumbing functions. Spacer can also be retained in a vertical and/orhorizontal slot(s) in body of level, thus allowing spacer positioning toavoid installation piece. Spacer can also be uncoupled to level, insteadrelying on a fastener used for level retention to hold spacer in placevia a hole in spacer through which fastener is placed.

Spacers 401-A, 401-B can selectively extend from a recessed of flushposition on body 410, with respect to side face 414, out to a positionthat provides sufficient clearance between the level and a work piece,such as a telescoping cylinder, spring-loaded popup spacer, foldingscissor arms, etc. Spacers 401-A, 401-B can any shape, such ascylindrical, a square, rectangular, or any other shape that proves astable offset between level and work or installation piece.

The face of spacer 401-A, 401-B that mates with or couples to a workpiece can have a removable coupling as well, such as a push pin, clamp,repositionable adhesive, etc. in one embodiment includes a fastenercoupled to a back, or exposed, face of the spacer, the fastener forcoupling the level apparatus to a work piece. Spacer can provide astructure through which a fastener may be placed thereby allowing thefastener head to bear on body 410 of level in drawing level 400-A towork piece, thereby sandwiching spacer in compression between the twoand providing a stable level reference.

Referring now to FIG. 4B an isometric view of a level 400-B with spacers401-A, 401-B coupled to a bottom face 432 for offsetting level 400-Bfrom a work piece for a plumb measurement using plumb vial 134, is shownaccording to one or more embodiments. Spacers 401-A, 401-B have equallength, thereby offsetting level 400-B an equal distance from a workpiece, protrude in a direction parallel to the axis formed by the plumbvial, and have a bore through which fasteners 408 threaded through borewith countersink 406-A, 406-B in body 410 may be placed, as alsoillustrated in FIG. 2D and 2E. Countersunk bore 406-A, 406-B can providefor fasteners 408 to be inserted from either the bottom surface 432 orthe opposite top surface. Distance between spacers 401-A and 401-B canbe 8, 9, or 10 feet to accommodate wall heights of approximately thesame height, or some other distance for a given application. The presentembodiment is useful for application as a plate level for plumbing wallsfor a building.

Referring now to FIG. 4C, 4D, and 4E an isometric top and front view,respectively, of level 400-C with fasteners 308 for side face retentionto work piece coupled to spacers 401-A, 401-B, and angular and/ortranslational adjustment systems 301-A, 301-B, respectively, are shownaccording to one or more embodiments. Level 400-C can be a system havingany combination of two or more embodiments of the following features andfunctions: fasteners per FIG. 2B and 2C for side face retention of levelto work piece; spacers per FIG. 4A for providing an offset of level fromwork piece; and adjustment systems per FIGS. 3A through 3C foradjustment the angularity and translation of the level to obtain adesired level, plumb or pitch position for the level. Thus, a synergyarises from combining all three independent features together in asingle level assembly.

Slip-Resistant System

Referring now to FIG. 5A, 5B and 5C an isometric view, top and frontview, respectively, of a level 500-A with a slip-resistant system 501 ona side face 516 of the level, is shown according to one or moreembodiments. Level 500-A includes a body 510 having a longitudinal axisextending a given length and having two side faces, a top and a bottomsurface, and two end faces with each end face located at the end of theaxis; a level vial 124 and/or a plumb vial 134 coupled to body 510; anda slip-resistant system 501 coupled to body 510. Slip resist system 501is provided to help retain level 500-A in a desired position withoutslipping, while a user jostles to make a measurement, marking, orreading is taken. However, slip-resistant system 501 is not excessivelysticky so as to hinder taps and nudges to help position level 500-A intoplace for a level or plumb measurement, marking, or reading. Slipresistant system 501 includes a single compressible non-slip surfacesuch as a pad 506, located centrally on side face 516-A, and coupled toa base 504 which is then coupled to side face 516-A by coupling agent502, such as adhesive, selectively removable hook and loop fastener,snap, detent, etc. which can be either permanent or removably coupledfor cleaning or replacement. Alternatively, non-slip pad can berotatably coupled to the body, e.g., via a snap, to allow rotationalmovement of the level, but to resist translational movement of thelevel.

Non-slip pad 506 is any compressible material , e.g., closed cell foam,cellulose sponge, non-slip cushioning mat material, etc. that offersslip-resistant properties against typical building materials such aswood, plywood, painted surfaces, doors, windows, drywall, etc. Base 504can be any type of material such as plastic, wood, or rubber thatcouples the non-slip pad to coupling agent 502. While slip-resistantsystem 501 has thickness 512 that extends beyond side face 516-B in anuncompressed mode, the slip-resistant system 501 is compressible to beflush with side face edge 516-B given very slight load, e.g., the weightof the level itself, 16 to 24 ounces of pressure, etc. While the presentembodiments show slip-resistant system 501 applied to side faces oflevel, it can also be applied to a recessed cavity (not shown) in topand/or bottom surface as well.

Referring to FIGS. 5D and 5E a top and front view of level 500-B with analternative layout of slip-resistant system 502 on a side face of thelevel, is shown according to one or more embodiments. A plurality ofnon-slip pads 520 are coupled to the body 510, wherein the plurality ofnon-slip pads are positioned at the corners of the side face 516-A. Slipresistant system 501 is adaptable to a wide variety of sizes andlocations, as desired by user preferences for reducing slippage andproviding a stable platform from which to measure, mark, and read leveland plum and offsets.

Offset Gauge

Referring now to FIG. 6A, an isometric view of a level 600-A with anoffset gauge system 601 for measuring slope or pitch of a work piece isshown, according to one or more embodiments. Level apparatus 600-Aincludes: a body 610 having a longitudinal axis extending a given lengthand having two side faces, a top and a bottom surface, and two end faceswith each end face located at the end of the axis; a level vial 124and/or a plumb vial 134; and an offset gauge system 601 coupled to body610 proximate to one of the end faces, wherein the offset gauge extendsa predetermined distance from the bottom face 632 of the body 610 toprovide a predetermined slope or pitch normalized for the given length606 of the body from a distant edge 622 to the tip 608-A of offset gaugepin 602. Alternative end 608-B has radius 611 to provide a centeringfunction of level on a top of a pipe or tube diameter or other curvedsurface, thereby offering better stability and level measurement.

Referring now to FIG. 6B, a side view close-up of the offset gauge pin,or extension, 602 in a retracted position in level 600-A is shown,according to one or more embodiments. Offset gauge system 601 includesoffset pin 602 located inside a bore 609 in body 610. Offset pin 602 hasa selector 604 that screws into offset pin 602, and that slidesvertically in slot 614 of body 610 and horizontally in slots 612-Athrough 612-C with an optional press fit to retain selector 604 toselected position for different predetermined degrees or pitches ofoffset. Pin 602 can have a slip or friction fit in body 610 with atopmost horizontal slot 616 for parking the offset pin 602 in aretracted position, e.g., recessed from face 632 to avoid interferingwith typical level and plumb measurements and readings. Pin 602 can alsobe spring loaded into a retracted position, to avoid unintentionalinterference with normal level operation, by locating coil spring aroundouter diameter of pin, and retaining spring in a recess in body 610.Horizontal slots 612-A, 612-B, and 612-C accept selector 604 to placeoffset pin 602 in extended positions beyond bottom surface 632.

Referring now to FIG. 6C, a detail view of offset gauge pin 602 inenlarged view to illustrate exemplary plurality of standard offsetsettings 606 is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Inparticular, offset settings 606 include a 1°, 2°, and 3° setting on theleft side of pin 602 and a pitch of “¼/12” on right side of pin 602 forrepresenting a typical plumbing code minimum drain pitch requirement of¼ inch drop over 12 inches of run. Offset settings 606 are shown atbottom surface 632 when selector 604 is placed in horizontal slots612-A, 612-B, 612-C, and 612-D, respectively. In an alternativeembodiment, offset gauge pin 602 and or markings on body 610 of levelcan provide multiple scales of measurement, each scale applicable for agiven length of level, wherein one length is a composite length of agiven number of modular joinable levels Thus, one scale can be for asingle three-foot level, while another scale can be for a 9-foot levelformed by the modular combination of three three-foot levels, the latterfor providing a longer and more accurate slope measurement.

Referring now to FIG. 6D, a side view of level 600-A with an engagedoffset gauge applied to a plumbing drain work piece 640 to confirm aminimum slope required by code is shown, according to one or moreembodiments. Offset gage pin 602 is positioned in slot 612-D for “¼/12”pitch setting for plumbing code minimum drain pitch requirement. Level600-A Level is marked with a “PASS” zone for middle and right portionsof level vial 124 because if drain work piece 640 has a pitch of ¼/12 ormore, then the bubble in level vial 124 will be in the middle ‘level’zone, as shown in the figure, or in the rightmost zone representing apitch greater than ¼/12, which would exceed the minimum pitchrequirement and thus qualify to ‘pass’ per code.

In alternative embodiments, offset gauge can be a rod, a flat or curvedplate, or a blade extension that is selectively extendable to berecessed in body or extend beyond bottom surface of the level, or can bea coiled and retractable tape measure with an optional hold button thatis coupled to, or disposed inside of, body 610; etc., all of which wouldhave at least one, and alternatively a plurality of extension points, torepresent at least one slope, or a plurality of slopes, pitches orangular measurement in degrees. A pin or a flat blade on offset gaugeallows it to sit on a curved surface of plumbing pipe or other flat orcurved surfaces and yield a consistent and accurate measurement.Alternatively, flat blade can have an edge with a sufficiently largeradius, e.g., 2 inches that would help to center it on curved pipes upto a typical maximum diameter of 4 inches. In lieu of a selector andslots to select offset positions, a ball and detent mechanism can beused for preset offset values. Level can be coupled to a work piece viaone or more spring clamps, or a strap with hook and loop fasteners,coupled to a modular end of level 600-A or coupled via a fastener inbottom face retention bore, with an appropriate calibration of theoffset measurement markings on the offset pin.

Protective Cover

Referring now to FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C an isometric view, front view, andright side view, respectively, of a level 700-A with a protective cover701 for contaminating work environments, is shown according to one ormore embodiments. Level apparatus 700-A includes: a body 710 having alongitudinal axis extending a given length and having two side faces, atop surface 730 and a bottom surface, and two end faces with each endface located at the end of the axis; a level bubble vial 124 and/or aplumb bubble vial 134; and a protective cover 701 coupled to body 710,wherein level measurements can be made with the protective cover on thelevel 700-A.

In the present embodiment, the top surface 730 of level 700-A of thelevel has structures that form retention structure, e.g., hole 716; andwherein the flexible strip 712 includes a plurality of tabs, or nubs,e.g., barbed fir tree fastener, or push in feet configured nubs 714, forinserting into the holes on the top surface of the body, in order toprovide coupling of the flexible strip to the body 710. Flexible strip712 can also provide protection of level 700-A from drops and bumps.

Referring now to FIGS. 7D, a side view of a level 700-D with analternative embodiment protective cover, is shown according to one ormore embodiments. Protective cover 701-A has a skirt 724 that pullsacross top surface and into side face by a distance of 722 in order toprovide a ‘hat’ type fit over level, with optional nubs, similar to FIG.7A to supplement the retention of protective cover 701-A on level 700-D.Protective cover 701-A does not cover end faces in one embodiment so asto not interfere with the modular assembly of multiple levels.

Alternative embodiments for protective cover 701 include: a flexiblestrip; selectively removable from the body; disposable or reusable; iscoupled to the top surface of the level for resting an installationpiece on the level; flexible strip integrated tongue that fits in grooveon top surface running length of level, or flexible strip being widerthan the top surface at least for one side face so as to provide a dripedge for the side face of the body in order to reduce contamination ofthe body and other optional functions of level such as modular ends,adjusting system, retention system, offset gauge system, etc. describedherein. Another alternative embodiment provides a low-profile cover,with a tab to remove it and a retainment tang coupled to body of level,that would not interfere with level measurements and reading and thatsnaps into place and that covers portions of the side face of level oversensitive features such as the adjustment system for angular andtranslational movement; connector and structure to accept connector inmodular ends; etc. Flexible strip 712 can be removed from level 700-Aand twisted and curled in order to break off hardened contaminants froma construction job such as tile grout, paint mortar, glue, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 7E is an installation assembly 700-E with a frontview of a level 700-A with a protective cover 701 being utilized in acontaminated work environment of installing a plurality of tile 750, isshown according to one or more embodiments. Tile 750 is stacked on topof level 700-A with spacers to position tile to accept grout, whereinthe grout application causes drops, spatters, and runoff togravitationally fall onto level 700-A, thereby contaminating level andany specialized functions on level. Having protective strip 701 tocollect grout contamination provides for a quick and easy cleanup bypeeling protective strip 701 from level 700-A and then twisting it tocrack off any grout, and washing it with water and mild soap willprovide a cleaned protective strip 701 that can be reinstalled on level700-A for future use in a contaminated environment.

Integrated Function Level

Referring now to FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C, an isometric, top, and front view,respectively, of a level with integrated features 800-A of: modular ends101-A and 101-B; hands-free retention system 201-A, 201-B, 216-A, 219-Band 251; linear and translational adjustment system 301-A, spacer offsetsystem 401-A and 401-B; slip-resistant system 501; offset gauge system601; and protective cover system 701, is shown according to one or moreembodiments. FIGS. 8A through 8C provide a compacted level with allnoted functions incorporated for purposes of illustration and maximumutility. In actual use, level could be substantially longer withadditional spacing between features.

In particular, the present disclosure provides a multi-function tool800-A that provides level, plumb, and angle measurements, marking andreading with enhanced functionality of: 1) modular ends 101-A and 101-Bthat allow attachment of mating levels for linear extension or extensioninto any one of multiple different planes or axes, or for attachment of,or add-on tools; 2) one or more attachment, or retention, devices 201-B,217-B, 219-B, 216-A, 251, and 308-A to secure the level to the workpiece structure or to the installation piece in order to providehands-free operation for measuring level, plumb, or offset thereby moreeffectively using manpower resources on a job; 3) one or more linear andtranslational adjustment devices 301-A, that allow either one end of thelevel to be adjusted angularly with respect to the other end or allowsthe entire level to be moved in a combination of parallel translationand/or angular offset in order to reach a desired level, plumb, or pitchas well as a desired location; 4) one or more spacer devices 401-A and401-B to offset the level from a work piece in any one of multiple sidesor faces of level 800-A; 5) one or more slip-resistant system, ornon-slip devices, 501 that allow a level to more easily be held againstthe work or installation piece and adjusted without being knocked orbumped out of position; 6) an offset system 601 to determine a variableor preset pitch or offset of a work piece or installation piece fromlevel or plumb; 7) a protective cover 701 on the level that allowsaccurate level measurements while protecting other areas of the levelfrom contamination and providing quick and easy cleanup of the level;and any combination thereof.

While level 800-A illustrates the combination of all seven features, alevel can provide any combination of any amount of these individuallydisclosed functions and features to provide a balance of functionalitywith product cost and application usefulness. Thus, different levelsystems are possible with the present disclosure having a combination ofany two features, any three features, any four features, any fivefeatures, any six features, or all seven features, as ordered by amarketing plan, or as ordered by a consumer from a customizable andflexible manufacturing order system. Also, the body of the level can bedesigned and fabricated with all the cutouts and formation but withoutthe hardware to enable those features; the hardware can be added in thefuture for additional functionality, should it be desired later, e.g.,with an add-on upgrade kit. In another embodiment, disclosed functionsand features can be provided modularly as add on levels of shortened ornormal length that couple to a base level used for basic level and plumbapplications. A synergy arises from combining any or all functions andfeatures disclosed. For example benefits from functions include: modularlevel allows the extension of the level system into longer lengths orinto different axes to provide a stable, simultaneous measurement andreading; hands-free retention operation reduces manpower requirementsfor a job; linear and angular adjustment provides a quick and easyadjustment of level without the repetition of tapping level, havinglevel slip, and repeating the process; offset spacer allows level to beoffset from a work piece in order to provide room for an installationpiece to be inserted against work piece; slip-resistant system providespredictable stiction of level to a work piece or installation piece inorder to prevent accidental slipping of level once a desired levelposition is attained; offset gauge system allows for quick, accurate,and consistent slope readings; and cover feature provides protection ofthe level, which can be costly and sensitive to contamination anddamage.

Functions

Referring now to FIG. 9, a functional block diagram 900 for advancedfeatures in leveling and plumbing functions 950 is shown according toone or more embodiments. One embodiment provides a function 901-A and901-B of extending a level modularly and linearly in one or more coaxialdirections by way of coupling a plurality of modular levels to eachother with a result of creating a level assembly from easilytransportable and storable modular pieces that together span widedistances for contiguous level or plumb measurements or marking.Functions 901-A and 901-B are implemented in embodiments illustrated inFIG. 1A through 1W and FIG. 10C.

Another embodiment provides functions 901-C and 901-D of extending alevel modularly in multiple different orthogonal planes formeasurements, marking or reading non-contiguous leveling, plumbing, orsquaring. These functions are accomplished by way of coupling aplurality of modular levels to each other in two or more orthogonal axeswith a result of creating a level assembly from easily transportable andstorable modular pieces that together span orthogonal planes fornon-contiguous level or plumb measurements or marking. Functions 901-Cis implemented in embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1X through 1AD, andFIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10D.

Functions 902-A through 902-C provide embodiments of retaining levelside face, level top or bottom face, and level end face, respectively,to a work piece or an installation piece. These functions areaccomplished by way of coupling one or more modular levels to the workpiece or installation piece with a result of providing hands-freemeasuring and marking of level, plumb, and square or any combinationthereof. Function 901-C is implemented in embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 2A through 2H. When combined with other functions, the retainingfunction 902-A and 902-B appears in FIGS. 3A through 3F, 4B-4E, 8A-8C,and 10A-10D.

Functions 903-A and 903-B provide embodiments of adjusting linear andangular displacement of a level, respectively, against a work piece oran installation piece. These functions are accomplished by way of anadjustable positioning device coupled to both the level and to the workpiece or installation piece with a result of allowing linear and angulardisplacement between the two. Functions 903-A and 903-B are implementedin embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3H, 4C through 4E, 8Athrough 8C, and 10C.

Function 904-A and 904-B provide embodiments of offsetting side face andbottom face, respectively, of level from work piece or installationpiece. These functions are accomplished by way of spacers or offsetscoupled to the level, and optionally coupled to the work piece orinstallation piece with a result of providing clearance for the actualinstallation piece or from the work piece yet allowing leveling orplumbing functions at convenient locations. Functions 904-A and 904-Bare implemented in embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4A through 4E, 6Athrough 6E, 8A through 8C, and 10B and 10C.

Function 905 provides an embodiment of slip resistance to leveling,plumbing, measuring, and marking functions 950. Slip resistance function905 is accomplished by way of contact surfaces with slip-resistantproperties integrated on a level that interface with an installation orwork piece, e.g., by providing a higher coefficient of static and /ordynamic friction than otherwise provided by a level, with a result ofreducing slippage and mismarking or mismeasuring of level, plumb, orgiven angle. Function 905 is implemented in embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 5A through 5E, and 8A through 8C.

Function 906 provides an embodiment of pitch offsetting to leveling,plumbing, measuring, reading, and marking functions 950. Pitchoffsetting function 906 is accomplished by way of a premeasured offsetdevice, coupled to the level, with selectively providing a range ofoffsets desired per building code or personal preference having a resultof more accurate and of simplified slope evaluation using a go/no-goreading. Function 906 is implemented in embodiments illustrated in FIGS.6A through 6E and FIGS. 8A through 8C.

Function 907 provides an embodiment of protection via a protective layerfor level that is accomplished by way of a physical layer of material onlevel that can be removed and cleaned. The result is a better maintainedlevel tool with less contamination obscuring the level or plumb vial andwith less contamination on surfaces such as the top and bottom surfacethat would cause erroneous level or plumb readings, measuring, ormarking. Thus, the result is a leveling and plumbing function with moreconsistent and accurate measurements, markings, and readings. Function907 is implemented in embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7A through 7E,and 8A through 8C.

Function 908 provides an embodiment of combining any of the abovefunctions together for use in measuring, marking or reading a levelingand/ or plumbing and/or squaring function. Thus, any combination offunctions such as: modular assembly, retaining, linear or angulardisplacement, slip resistance, pitch offsetting, and contaminationprotection can be provided to result in a tool with a synergistic effectin efficiency from use of multiple advanced features together. Forexample, the use of modular levels combined in an assembly, withoffsets, retainment, and linear/ angular adjustment functions, asillustrated in FIG. 10C, allows a contiguous level installation ofmultiple windows spanning a substantial distance wherein the level isretained to the work piece, the wall, for hands-free level measurementduring installation, wherein the level is quickly and easily adjusted toa level reading using linear and angular adjustments, wherein the levelis offset from the work piece to allow clearance for the installationpiece, e.g., the windows, and wherein the retainment function allows thelevel to support the weight of the installation piece windows to providea setup position for the installation piece windows that defaults to alevel position. Means for enabling functions of FIG. 9 include thestructures and methods disclosed herein and their equivalents.

Installation Applications

Referring now to FIG. 10A an isometric view of doorframe installation1000-A using modular levels configured as a framing square modular level1010 to measure both level and plumb, is shown according to one or moreembodiments. Framing square modular level 1010 can be retained to doorframe using one or more fasteners 1018 that are long enough to engagethe door frame but short enough to not engage wall frame studs, therebyallowing the use of shims 1014 to obtain the proper level and plumb ofdoorframe. In particular, one fastener 1018 may be used to secure justone leg of framing square modular level 1010, e.g., to the vertical 1012portion of doorframe, and let the other leg of the framing squaremodular level 1010 float. Then level can first be obtained, with plumbbeing obtained by eliminating any gap between vertical leg of framingsquare modular level 1010. Alternatively, framing square modular level1010 can be secured to both vertical frame 1010 and horizontal frame1012 components of doorframe, but care should be used in positioningdoorframe to avoid overstressing the framing square modular level 1010.Beneficially, following the successful doorframe installation, framingsquare modular level 1010 can be disassembled for transport and/orutilized with the same or other functions in other applications forplumb, level, offsets, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 10B an isometric view of a wall installation1000-B using modular levels configured as a modular plate level 1020with spacer offsets 1040 and one or more fasteners 1018 for retainingmodular plate level 1020 to wall 1022 to measuring plumb, is shownaccording to one or more embodiments. Wall 1022 is plumbed by securingmodular plate level 1020 preferably with only a single fastener 1018-Athough spacer 1040-A on the top plate 1026 with spacer 1040-B restingagainst bottom plate 1028 thereby allowing level to be retained, yetfloat and avoid warping or damaging it, as the wall is moved, flexed,and secured. Beneficially, following the successful window installation,modular plate level 1020 can be disassembled for transport and/orutilized with the same or other functions in other applications forplumb, level, offsets, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 10C an exploded view of window installation 1000-Cperformed using modular levels coupled together and configured as anelongated installation-plane level assembly 1038 with spacer offsets1040-C through 1040-G and retention connectors 1018 for creating a levelinstallation-plane on which two similar windows 1030-A and 1030-B can beinstalled on a same wall, is shown according to one or more embodiments.In particular, modular level assembly combines two or more individualmodular levels together and utilizes spacers 1040-C through 1040-G tocreate a gap between wall 1036 and level assembly 1038 in order toaccommodate flanges 1035-A and 1035-B of windows 1030-A and 1030-B thatwill be positioned between level assembly 1038 and wall 1036, whileallowing sill 1037-A and 1037-B of windows 1030-A and 1030-B to rest ontop surface of installation-plane level assembly 1038 as shown by dashedinstall lines. Fasteners install through body of level and throughspacers 1040-C through 1040-G into studs of wall 1036 and additionalfasteners may optionally be installed through retention holes in body oflevels and into studs of wall 1036 to provide additional rigidity andsupport in order to prevent warping and damage to level assembly 1038and windows 1030-A and 1030-B. Elongated installation-plane levelassembly 1038 can be used for parallel measurement, marking, or readingof level, plumb, or offset any parallel application, including those onintersecting walls, e.g., where window applications occur onintersecting walls straddling an inside corner or an outside corner.Beneficially, following the successful window installation,installation-plane level assembly 1038 can be disassembled for transportand/or utilized with the same or other functions in other applicationsfor plumb, level, offsets, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 10D an isometric view of a base cabinetinstallation 1000-D using modular levels coupled together and configuredas a two-axis U-shaped square level assembly 1050 for measuring leveltop surface 1052 of base cabinets 1054, is shown according to one ormore embodiments. The U-shaped level assembly 1050 is created bycoupling a plurality of modular levels, e.g., a minimum of three levelsand a total of four levels in the present embodiment, to form a “U”shape with legs forming right angles. In particular, U-shaped modularlevel assembly 1040 is placed on top surface 1052 of base cabinets 1054and read to confirm level surface for subsequent countertopinstallation. Optionally, fasteners (not shown) may be utilized toloosely or rigidly affix U-shaped modular level assembly 1040 to basecabinets 1054 for stability. Shims 1014 may be utilized to then adjustportions of base cabinet that need to be raised in order to create aconsistently flat and level top surface 1052. U-shaped modular levelassembly 1040 provides inherent stability in the U-shape, thus providinglevel in multiple planes. Thus, U-shaped modular level assembly 1040will not fall over as would multiple unattached independent levelsplaced in different areas of top surface 1052 of base cabinets 1054.Beneficially, following successful leveling of base cabinets 1054,U-shaped modular level assembly 1040 can be disassembled for transportand/or utilized in other applications for plumb, level, offsets, etc.Alternatively, modular levels may be combined to close the U shape andmake a box shape level assembly, e.g., four modular levels combined atright angles to each other, for inherent stability and multi-axis level,plumb, and offset measurement, marking, and reading. The term squarerefers to a ninety degree angle between members rather than anequal-sided rectangle.

Alternative embodiments include where one or more of the plurality ofspacers, e.g., a first and second spacer, are: permanently fastened tothe first and second level selectively; are selectively removable fromthe first and/or second level; selectively positionable apart from eachother by a range of distances including standard heights of walls of abuilding, e.g. via having different position attach points on the levelfor the spacers, or by having slots on the level along the axis or alongother axes; have a longitudinal axis that is parallel to an axis of aplumb vial coupled to at least one of the plurality of levels; spacedapart from each other a distance approximately equal to a standardheight of walls of a building, e.g., eight, nine, or ten feet; spacedapart wide enough to accommodate an installation piece between the levelsystem and the work piece upon which the installation pieces will beinstalled; spaced apart to accommodate a plurality an installationpieces on a single continuous and/or level plane formed by the levelsystem (can have additional spacers beyond the first and second spacer).

Level can be fabricated of any suitable material, including inorganicmaterials such as metal, e.g., aluminum, etc. or organic materials suchas plastic, laminate, etc. that will maintain structural integrity anddimensional stability in different temperatures and humidity conditions,while being robust in the field, e.g., resist breaking and bending fromfalls and bumps, and from work loads being placed upon it. Levelembodiments herein can be integrated with: digital readout of level,plumb, or angle; laser pointer functions, etc.

The present description is applicable to a wide variety of applicationsand is not limited to any particular type of materials, measurementmarkings, hinge or pivot type, sizes or geometries of surfaces otherthan the straightedges 10A and 10B or the bottom surfaces 24A and 24B.Rather, the present description is applicable to a wide variety ofmaterials, measurement markings, geometries, hinges and pivot types andarrangements that meet the marking functions listed herein.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications andvariations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodimentswere chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of theinvention and its practical application, to thereby enable othersskilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodimentswith various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be definedby the Claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

1-23. (canceled)
 24. A level apparatus comprising: a body having a longitudinal axis and having two side faces, a top and a bottom surface, and two end faces with each end face located at the end of the longitudinal axis; a structure in the body to receive a fastener for coupling the level to a work piece; and at least one level indicator coupled to the body and visible on at least one of the two side faces of the body.
 25. The level apparatus of claim 24 further comprising: a fastener coupled to the structure in the body, the fastener for coupling the level apparatus to a work piece for determining a level measurement.
 26. The level apparatus of claim 25 wherein the fastener is an item selected from the group consisting of: a screw, a nail, a suction cup, magnet, and a clamp.
 27. The level apparatus of claim 25 wherein the fastener is retractable into the body of the level.
 28. The level apparatus of claim 25 wherein the fastener is selectively removable from the body.
 29. The level apparatus of claim 24 wherein the structure in the body to receive the fastener is located approximately near a center point between the two end faces of the body.
 30. The level apparatus of claim 24 further comprising: a plurality of structures in the body, wherein each of the plurality of structures can receive a fastener.
 31. The level apparatus of claim 24 wherein one of the plurality of structures is located near one end face of the body and another of the plurality of structures is located near the other end face of the body.
 32. The level apparatus of claim 24 wherein the structure in the body is a curved slot to accept a fastener in order to allow movement of one of the end faces of the level up or down.
 33. The level apparatus of claim 24 wherein the structure allows a fastener to extend from either of the two side faces, or from a top face or a bottom face of the body. 34-83. (canceled)
 84. A level system comprising: a body having a longitudinal axis and having two side faces, a top and a bottom surface, and two end faces with each end face located at the end of the longitudinal axis; a plurality of fasteners coupled to the structure in the body, the fastener for coupling the level apparatus to a work piece; a plurality of structures in the body to receive the plurality of fasteners; and at least one level indicator coupled to the body.
 85. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein the each of the plurality of fasteners is an item selected from a group of elements consisting of: a screw, a nail, a suction cup, magnet, and a clamp.
 86. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein each of the plurality of fasteners is retractable into the body of the level.
 87. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein at least one of the plurality of fasteners is selectively removable from the body.
 88. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein one of the pluralities of structures of the body is located near one end face of the body and another of the plurality of structures is located near the other end face of the body.
 89. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein the structure in the body is a curved slot to accept a fastener in order to allow movement of one of the end faces of the level up or down.
 90. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein the structure allows a fastener to extend from either of the two side faces, or from a top face or a bottom face of the body.
 91. The level apparatus of claim 84 wherein the structure allows a fastener to extend from either of the two side faces, or from a top face or a bottom face of the body.
 92. A level apparatus comprising: a body having a longitudinal axis and having two side faces, a top and a bottom surface, and two end faces with each end face located at the end of the longitudinal axis; a structure in the body to receive a fastener for coupling the level to a work piece; and at least one level indicator coupled to the body and visible on at least one of the two side faces of the body; and means for retaining the body against a work piece.
 93. The level apparatus of claim 92 further comprising: means for angular adjustment of the body against the work piece for performing leveling operations. 